Fitness
These Recumbent Exercise Bikes Are Easy on Your Joints
Versatile and effective, stationary exercise bikes make a fantastic addition to any home gym. That’s because they provide a solid low-impact workout while boosting cardiovascular fitness. Recumbent bikes are a type of stationary bike that puts you in a more comfortable reclined position to support your back as you exercise. This position distributes the rider’s weight more evenly, in turn providing better support for your back and reducing strain on your neck and wrists.
Seniors, those just getting started on their fitness journey and individuals who have knee and joint pain may especially appreciate recumbent bikes as a way to stay active. Our fitness and engineering experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute have evaluated exercise bikes for over a decade, looking at all different options at a variety of price points to help you find the best solution for your fitness needs. When researching recumbent exercise bikes, we looked for highly rated options with adjustable features, a wide range of resistance, a clear display and durable materials. Our top picks offer something for every rider, whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned pro.
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Pros
- Moderate price point
- Tracks a variety of metrics
- Vented seat and backrest
Cons
- Small screen compared to other models
Schwinn is a leader in stationary exercise bikes and has previously performed well in our tests. This recumbent bike model comes in at a moderate price point but doesn’t skimp on special features. With 16 magnetic resistance levels and 13 built-in workout programs, this machine is great for a variety of workout levels and intensities.
Our experts like that the LCD screen tracks metrics like speed, RPM, heart rate, distance and time, but note that it is on the smaller side at only 5.5 inches. The good news is that the bike syncs with popular cycling apps like Zwift, and is Bluetooth heart rate-enabled if you have the accompanying strap. You’ll notice that this recumbent bike has a vented seat and back to keep you cool during your workout.
Reviewers liked that the seat is highly adjustable and find the flywheel smooth and fairly quiet. Many noted that the machine is sturdy as well. But if you’re looking for a slightly larger screen and a padded seat, Schwinn also makes a 290 model with a few additional special features at a slightly higher price.
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| Dimensions | 64″ L x 27.7″ W x 44″ H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 16 magnetic resistance levels |
| Display | 5.5-in. segmented LCD |
| Product weight | 81.6 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 300 lbs |
Pros
- Budget-friendly choice
- Best for seniors
- Padded seat and backrest
Cons
- Only eight resistance levels
We’re fans of many Merach products, including their rower that performed well in our tests. Their S08 bike has an overall 4.5 out of 5 star rating on Amazon and has all the essentials you would expect in a good quality stationary bike for a very low price. The LCD monitor is on the smaller side but shows metrics like distance, time, heart rate and more.
The seat and backrest are both padded, and reviewers noted how comfortable and quiet the bike is during their workouts. Many reviewers also said that the bike is very straightforward regarding assembly and is partially pre-assembled. With the easier assembly and cushioned seat, we feel that this pick is also a great option for seniors.
Keep in mind that you will only find eight resistance levels on this bike, which is less than others on this list but still provides for enough variance in your workout. If you’re looking to get a good quality recumbent bike at a low price point, the S08 fits the bill.
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| Dimensions | 51.96″D x 25″W x 38.38″H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 8 levels of magnetic resistance |
| Display | LCD monitor |
| Product weight | 57 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 300 lbs |
3
Best for Beginners
Sunny Health & Fitness Programmable Recumbent Bike
Pros
- Affordable piece of equipment
- 24 built-in workouts
- Device holder
Cons
- Very basic display
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly recumbent bike, look no further than Sunny Health & Fitness. The brand makes a variety of affordable workout equipment offerings that have historically shown great value in our evaluations. The SF-RB4850 recumbent bike is one of the more affordable options that we have seen, but still includes special features we look for like 24 built-in workouts, a performance monitor that tracks basic metrics and a device holder for your phone or tablet.
This model has 16 levels of automatic magnetic tension, and most importantly has a padded seat for comfort during your exercise session and a mesh back to keep you cool and ventilated. The bike accommodates those with a leg inseam of 29.9 inches to 39.4 inches. Reviewers loved the value of this machine, with many reporting that it provides a smooth ride and comfortable seating, but noted that the display could be a bit more sophisticated.
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| Dimensions | 59″ L x 26″ W x 47.5″ H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 16 levels of automatic magnetic tension |
| Display | Color meter display |
| Product weight | 86.4 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 300 lbs |
Pros
- Higher maximum user weight than other models
- 16 levels of resistance
- 8 seat positions
Cons
- Smaller display
Most recumbent exercise bikes on the market have a maximum user weight capacity of around 300 pounds, but this option from Niceday can support riders up to 400 pounds. Reviewers also like that the bike comes largely pre-assembled and at a moderate price.
Our fitness experts appreciate that the bike offers 16 levels of progressive resistance, as well as a cushioned seat for comfort and a breathable mesh backrest to keep you cool during those longer sweat sessions. Plus, the seat position adjusts up to eight different ways, which is particularly good for accommodating a short or tall person.
The LED monitor tracks basic metrics, and there is a tablet holder to keep you entertained during your ride. The bike even has Bluetooth capabilities if you want to connect to cycling apps.
| Dimensions | 50″D x 23″W x 45″H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 16 levels of magnetic resistance |
| Display | LED digital monitor |
| Product weight | 89 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 400 lbs |
Pros
- 14-in HD smart touchscreen
- 26 levels of digital resistance
- iFIT provides access to 16,000 interactive workouts
Cons
- Expensive
NordicTrack makes some of our favorite top-tested treadmills, and our personal trainers love the offerings and seasoned fitness instructors on iFIT, the interactive training platform on NordicTrack equipment. One of the few smart recumbent exercise bikes on the market, this model is pricey but offers a ton of special features that you won’t find on a generic exercise bike.
We like that this model has a substantial 14-inch HD smart touchscreen (one of the largest that we have seen on recumbent bike models) where you can access over 16,000 interactive iFIT workouts including bike sessions led by top trainers. Some reviewers voiced frustration over the bike not having much to offer in terms of pre-programmed content if you don’t subscribe to iFIT, but a 30-day free iFIT trial is included with purchase so you can see if the subscription is worth it for you.
The bike boasts 26 levels of digital resistance and hands-free automatic adjustments, plus a fan to keep you cool during those longer rides. It’s a splurge purchase but it’s from a reputable brand in the fitness space.
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| Dimensions | 68.22” L x 23.69” W x 53.42” H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 26 digital levels |
| Display | 14-in. smart HD touchscreen |
| Product weight | 192 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 350 lbs |
How we choose the best recumbent exercise bikes
When researching recumbent exercise bikes, we look for highly rated options from reputable brands in the industry that have a track record of performing well in our tests in other fitness equipment categories. Our fitness experts prioritize options with adjustable features, smooth resistance systems, built-in workout programs and comfortable seating.
We keep in mind options that we feel are best for seniors, those with joint pain as well as weight-inclusive choices. Additionally, we look for smart models that offer a more interactive experience for high-tech users.
What to look for when shopping for the best recumbent exercise bike
Finding a high-quality exercise bike requires taking a close look at everything from assembly to resistance levels. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the best option for your needs:
✔️ Comfortable seating: Whether you prefer a padded seat or a seat with ventilation is personal preference, but a comfortable seat is important so you can ride for a significant amount of time without discomfort.
✔️ Display: A display that tracks metrics, even basic ones such as speed and distance, is useful on a recumbent bike. Some bikes offer more metrics and larger backlit screens than others. Certain units even have smart touchscreens for a more interactive experience.
✔️ Resistance: Looking for a recumbent exercise bike that offers a range of levels and a smooth resistance system such as a magnetic one are key for an efficient and effective ride.
✔️ Adjustable settings: Ensuring that the seat positions and handlebars are highly adjustable can help accommodate a variety of different body types and heights. We also included information on maximum user weight for each bike on our list.
✔️ Special features: Some bikes have heart-rate monitors on the handlebars that sync up to the screen, built-in workout programs and options for connecting apps or music.
✔️ Dimensions: The most important thing to consider is dimensions of the bike and whether or not it will fit into your home gym space, whether that’s a spacious basement or a small bedroom corner.
Who is a recumbent bike good for?
Recumbent exercise bikes are designed for low-impact workouts, making them an ideal choice for the following individuals:
✔️ Seniors: With the seat lower to the ground, the design of most recumbent bikes makes them easier to balance on as well as get on and off of compared to traditional upright ones.
✔️ People with joint pain: The positioning of a rider when they exercise on a recumbent bike allows for reduced strain on joints including the knees and hips. Stationary bikes in general are great for low-impact activity, but the setup of a recumbent bike is even lower-impact than an upright one.
✔️ People with back issues: A supportive backrest and the reclining position of a recumbent bike provides back support, unlike other traditional stationary bikes.
✔️ Overweight riders: Most recumbent exercise bikes have a more substantial seat than other bikes, making them a more comfortable choice for a heavy person.
✔️ Beginners: Recumbent exercise bikes allow you to go at your own pace, so if you’re looking for a more leisurely workout to get yourself into an exercise routine, then they can be an excellent place to start. Since they have variable resistance, you can amp up the intensity as you become fitter.
What are some of the benefits of using a recumbent exercise bike?
Aside from offering an effective cardio workout, a recumbent exercise bike provides a variety of benefits:
✔️ Low impact: The reclining position and substantial seat size compared to other stationary bikes works to distribute weight more evenly and reduce impact on joints.
✔️ Comfort: Back support on a recumbent bike can reduce strain on your back, neck and even your wrists, so you can ride more comfortably and for longer periods of time. It also gives you the option to ride the bike hands-free, so you can stay busy by reading a book or catching up on text messages during your workout session.
✔️ Safety: Since recumbent bikes are lower to the ground than upright ones, they can be easier to get on and off of, especially for senior riders.
Is a recumbent bike good for exercise?
Absolutely. A recumbent bike can be an effective and safe option for regular exercise. The low-impact workout is easier on the joints than other cardio equipment like treadmills. Not only can recumbent exercise bikes help improve heart health and endurance since they provide a solid cardio workout, but they also can help strengthen leg muscles.
As with any piece of exercise equipment, what you put in to the workout is what you’ll get out of it. You can go more leisurely on a recumbent exercise bike than an upright bike or stationary bike, but you can also push quite hard for an intense workout too.
Which is better: a treadmill or a recumbent exercise bike?
Both are excellent pieces of exercise equipment. The choice ultimately depends on your fitness goals and whether or not you are dealing with any injuries or limitations around your activity.
A treadmill can typically provide a higher intensity workout and may burn slightly more calories per minute if you are running. But a recumbent exercise bike is easier on the joints, making them suitable for a variety of riders, and the reclined position provides support which may allow you to workout for a longer period of time.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Stefani Sassos has been working in the fitness industry for over a decade, specializing in indoor cycling and strength training. As a NASM-certified personal trainer and women’s fitness specialist, Sassos uses her exercise science knowledge and expertise to create informed fitness content for the Good Housekeeping Institute. She began her indoor cycling career in college, where she was a Penn State fitness instructor, and she went on to teach indoor cycling at major gyms and studios including Equinox Fitness Clubs. She has taught and trained on a variety of different exercise bikes and is well-versed in the current offerings.
Stefani (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, where she handles all nutrition-related content, testing and evaluation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from NYU. She is also Good Housekeeping’s on-staff fitness and exercise expert. Stefani is dedicated to providing readers with evidence-based content to encourage informed food choices and healthy living. She is an avid CrossFitter and a passionate home cook who loves spending time with her big fit Greek family.
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